The Fishermen’s Trail. 22nd - 26th May 2018

Following on from my last article advertising the Charity Walk , I am delighted to announce the completion of a superb 4 days walking on the Fishermen’s Trail in Alentajo. There were a total of 17 walkers that took part, some walking the whole route, some for 2 or 3 days and the majority walking the last day. Those I had the pleasure of walking with were: Maddy van Kleef, Jill Edwards, Keith & Alison Scott, John Corrigan, Nigel & Lorely Cotterill, Mick & Jodie Caudle, Mel & Karen Huxtable, Warren & Pippa Tennant and Richard, Gill & Sophie Usher.

As you will see from the photographs the scenery was unbelievably beautiful. At this time of year the wild flowers are in full bloom and species never seen before by the walkers, were in abundance. We also saw various species of birdlife such as gannet, seagull, nesting white stork, jackdaw, shag and rock dove. On the last day, the team met with Ostrich and Buffalo whilst passing a nearby farm.

The terrain varied quite dramatically ranging from sandy pathways, beach, cliff tops, woodland and dirt track. There were many challenges over the four days ranging from 22km of walking on deep sand on the first day, rock scrambles, and an interesting stream crossing on the last day.
The walkers were supported by a logistics team comprising of Dave Tweed, Yvonne Pyper and Steve Edwards. Without their commitment and support the walk would have been far more difficult. A beach side picnic was set up by them on the last day and was a welcome sight to the walkers as they approached the finishing line. It was a lovely gesture of Mick Caudle and Ian & Lisa Williams to welcome us home, thanks to them.
The Charity fund to date stands at 4,000 euros, with 2,400 euros being raised from the walk. Thank you to all for your generosity. I am very proud of all those who took part, those who supported the Team and of course those who sponsored.